Valerie E. Pogozelski Obituary April 25, 2022

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IN LOVING MEMORY OF

Valerie E.

Pogozelski

June 29, 1951 – April 25, 2022

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Obituary

Valerie E. Pogozelski of Philadelphia born June 29th, 1951 in Hudson County New Jersey. Valerie lived

most of her adult life in Philadelphia. She had a Bachelor of Science in Education degree from Temple

University. Valerie worked for several non-profits during her lifetime including, Neighborhood Interfaith

Movement (NIM) and Philadelphia Council on Aging. She wrote the Ombudsman Nursing Home Manual

while working at NIM. Valerie's last position was with the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission.

Throughout Valerie's professional and personal life, she was always a staunch advocate for persons

whatever their background or circumstances. She believed in community and was committed to helping

others especially the aging.

Valerie was an avid reader, love to help others and enjoyed "Turkish" TV shows. Really, she immensely

enjoyed all TV shows. She loved to be near the ocean and was an incredible baker and cook. Valerie was

a spectator participant of professional ice skating and tennis and knew all about the participants and

their families.

Her furry children gave her special joy and companionship throughout her lifetime. Her fur baby

throughout most of the last 15 years was Gracie, a munchkin cat.

In Valerie's lifetime, she experienced two miracles recovering from two near death experiences. She

embraced life each time and did all she could to recover. Valerie was humble and stoic accepting her

suffering with grace and acceptance. Her strong faith in God and religious training imbued her with a

strong moral compass, empathy for others and gratitude for all the joy that she experienced. Her

generous heart and her embracement of life were gifts she shared with all of her family and friends.

Late parents Vincent and Mary Grace Pogozelski of Newtown, PA

Survived by, Laura Ann (Pogozelski) Gilbride (husband Thomas Gilbride), Bernadette Pogozelski and

Theresa Kelly Pogozelski; Two nieces Victoria Grace Gilbride and Elizabeth Kelly and One nephew,

Patrick Thomas Gilbride

Cousins, friends and special lifetime friends Hannah Kramer, Perry, Laura Gealt.

Relatives and friends are invited to her viewing Tuesday May 3, 2022 at St. Katherine of Siena Church

(9700 Frankford Ave., Philadelphia PA 19114) from 9:30AM-10:30AM followed by her funeral mass.

Interment private.

In lieu of flowers, it is requested you honor her memory by donating to Saint Jude Hospital for Children

or the SPCA.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Valerie E. Pogozelski, please visit our flower store.